Kazakhstan’s Renewable Energy Capacity Reaches 3.537 GW
Kazakhstan is steadily advancing its green energy agenda, marking a significant milestone by reaching a total installed renewable energy capacity of 3.537 gigawatts (GW) by the close of 2025. This achievement underscores the nation’s commitment to diversifying its energy mix and reducing its carbon footprint.
According to data from Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy, this capacity accounted for 7% of the country’s total electricity production last year, signaling a growing role for clean energy in the national grid.
A Closer Look at the Kazakhstan renewable energy Landscape
In 2025, renewable energy facilities in Kazakhstan generated 8.621 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, a notable 13.7% increase compared to the previous year. This growth is particularly significant when viewed against the backdrop of the country’s overall energy statistics. Total electricity production for the year stood at 123.1 billion kWh, while consumption reached 124.6 billion kWh, highlighting a national energy deficit.
During the same period, the nation’s total installed power capacity saw an increase from 25.3 GW to 26.7 GW. While renewables are expanding, this growth is part of a much broader strategy to ensure energy security.
Major Projects and Future Ambitions for Kazakhstan renewable energy
Several key projects are fueling this renewable expansion. A prominent example is the hybrid power plant in Zhanaozen, a joint venture between KazMunayGas and the Italian energy company Eni. This project, with a total capacity of 247 MW, includes a 50 MW solar plant launched in 2025, a 77 MW wind farm, and a 120 MW gas power plant scheduled for completion in 2026. Such hybrid models are crucial for providing stable power by balancing the intermittency of solar and wind with dispatchable gas generation.
Looking ahead, Kazakhstan is poised for even greater growth. In early 2026, the country ratified agreements for an additional 1.8 GW of wind and solar farms, with significant investment from Chinese firms. This international collaboration is a cornerstone of the country’s renewable energy strategy. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has also been a key partner, investing close to $450 million in Kazakhstan to support projects in renewable energy and infrastructure.
A Balanced Approach to Energy Security in Kazakhstan renewable energy
While celebrating its renewable energy achievements, Kazakhstan is pursuing a pragmatic and balanced energy policy to address its power deficit and modernize its infrastructure. The government’s strategy is not solely focused on green energy but encompasses a multi-pronged approach.
Plans are underway for a national project focused on “clean coal” technology, aiming to leverage the country’s abundant coal reserves more sustainably. Simultaneously, significant efforts are being made to expand natural gas exploration, with potential resources estimated at around 1.7 trillion cubic meters.
Furthermore, to ensure long-term energy stability, Kazakhstan has approved plans to construct a second nuclear power plant. In 2026, the country will also undertake a major overhaul of its conventional power infrastructure, with plans to upgrade 9 energy blocks, 55 boilers, and 51 turbines.
This comprehensive strategy demonstrates that while Kazakhstan is making impressive strides in renewable energy, its primary focus remains on building a resilient, secure, and diverse energy system capable of meeting the nation’s growing demands. The 3.537 GW milestone is a vital step on this complex journey.
